Dayton to activate red light cameras in October, officials say

Dayton’s red-light and speed detection cameras will be activated as soon as Oct. 1, but the city will not start citing motorists for violations captured on tape until a month later.

During the month of October, the city will issue warnings to drivers who were caught running red lights or speeding by 10 automated traffic cameras at five locations in Dayton.

RELATED: Cities can turn red light cameras back on, court rules; state threatens to fight back

But beginning Nov. 1, motorists will be mailed $85 fines if they are caught on camera breaking the law.

City officials said traffic cameras save lives and prevent injuries and property damage, and additional cameras at new sites may be activated in the future.

RELATED: Dayton's red light, speed cameras will run 24/7 without police present

Camera sites were chosen based on data showing vehicle crash locations and types. Cameras will be located in the following locations:

  • West Third Street at James H. McGee Boulevard (three red light cameras)
  • North Gettysburg Avenue at Fairbanks Avenue (two speed cameras)
  • North Main Street at Siebenthaler Avenue (one speed camera)
  • South Keowee Street between East Third Street and East Fourth Street (two speed cameras)
  • South Smithville Road at Linden Avenue (two red light cameras).

Additional camera locations may be activated in the future. The Dayton Police Department's mobile "speed trailer" and hand-held speed cameras are also used as needed.

The city's use of traffic safety enforcement cameras is designed to save lives and to prevent injuries and property damage, according to the release. There has been a 40 percent increase in vehicle crashes in Dayton since 2014, which corresponds to the period the previous camera program was shut down, the release said.

MORE: Dayton ranks among fastest-growing cities for immigrants

In 2016, there were more than 4,000 crashes on Dayton roads, resulting in more than 1,000 injuries and 31 fatalities. These deaths and injuries were preventable, the release said.

"Public safety is always our top priority," said Dayton Police Chief Richard Biehl. "Camera enforcement is very effective in reducing accidents in high-risk areas."

MORE: ‘You can get a better life,’ one immigrant says of Dayton

The city originally planned to launch a more limited traffic camera program that would have required police officers to be stationed at the devices while in operation.

But a ruling by the Ohio Supreme Court overturned restrictions requiring sworn law enforcement officers to be present at the cameras in order for cities to cite violations documented by photo or video.

Critics have accused cities such as Dayton of using cameras primarily to generate revenue, a claim that Dayton officials and leaders have strongly denied.

In 2016, more than 4,000 crashes occurred in Dayton, which resulted in more than 1,000 injuries and 31 deaths.

Officials say motor vehicle crashes are preventable and traffic camera enforcement deters risky driving behaviors.

About the Author